KPTS Goes Tapeless with Omneon Spectrum

December 9, 2005

Omneon Video Networks is helping PBS affiliate KPTS-TV go tapeless with its Spectrum media server system to support play-out.

Using the Spectrum, operators can play out material instantly instead of retrieving from a tape library. Spectrum supports a variety of third-party applications for control and transmission, media management, archiving and collaborative production.

KPTS-TV broadcasts its primary channel in analog and digital and a second digital channel that provides educational programming for adults. In January, the broadcaster will launch a third channel, carrying children's programming for during the day, that will also be used as an alternative schedule of prime-time PBS programming.

The Wichita, Kan.-based broadcaster installed the Omneon Spectrum server along with a new MicroFirst Digital Automation System (DAS). Under automation control, the server currently stores programs off satellite feeds and plays them out according to the schedule. Eventually, the Omneon server will take over all storage and play-out from the facility's VTRs and an older server system.